'I Am Kamal Haasan’s Niece, You Forgot That?': Suhasini Maniratnam Reveals Who Intimidated Her On Set

Suhasini Maniratnam has long been regarded as one of South Indian cinema’s most versatile and respected performers. But at the recent IFFI 2025 session The Luminary Icons: Creative Bonds and Fierce Performances, she surprised audiences by recounting a moment early in her career when she felt genuinely intimidated on a film set — and the sharp, unforgettable line she used to reclaim her confidence: “I am Kamal Haasan’s niece, you forgot that?” Her revelation has sparked renewed interest in her life, her illustrious family, and the journey that shaped her into the artist she is today. (Image: Instagram)
Suhasini is an acclaimed Indian actor, writer, and filmmaker who has worked across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada cinema. Known for her expressive performances and strong screen presence, she emerged in the 1980s as one of the most promising talents of her generation. Before becoming an actor, she worked behind the camera as a cameraperson, a detail that plays a key role in the story she shared at IFFI. (Image: Instagram)
Suhasini comes from one of the most influential artistic families in Indian cinema. She is the niece of legendary actor Kamal Haasan. She is part of the Haasan family, known for its contributions to acting, direction, and production. This lineage shaped her early exposure to cinema and gave her a deep understanding of the craft long before she stepped in front of the camera. (Image: Instagram)
Suhasini is married to Mani Ratnam, one of India’s most celebrated filmmakers. Together, they form one of the most respected creative partnerships in Indian cinema. (Image: Instagram)
Suhasini’s journey is unusual and inspiring: She began her career as a cameraperson, working behind the scenes. She transitioned to acting and quickly became a leading lady in the 1980s and 1990s. (Image: Instagram)
She has acted in several major films across industries, including multiple collaborations with megastar Chiranjeevi such as Manchu Pallaki (1982), Kirathakudu (1986), and Aradhana (1987). She is known for her nuanced performances and her ability to portray strong, emotionally layered characters.
At IFFI 2025, Suhasini recalled a moment from an early shoot with Chiranjeevi: She was on a massive set, the kind where a single call for silence freezes the entire crew. Chiranjeevi, already a rising star, told her “Don’t behave like a junior artist” and asked her to “do better” during a scene.
At that time, he only knew her as a cameraperson, not as an actor. Feeling intimidated but determined, she shot back with the now‑viral line: “I am Kamal Haasan’s niece, you forgot that?” The audience at IFFI erupted in laughter as she narrated the incident, and the story has since gone viral for its mix of humour, confidence, and nostalgia. (Image: Instagram)